Shabbat Shalom from Tikkun Israel!
As the Torah reading of this Shabbat ends the book of Numbers with a detailed description of the journeys of the tribes of Israel, we too are reaching the end of our journey and excited to celebrate our last Shabbat together.
This week, we embarked on a diverse and impactful journey, starting with hands-on volunteering in a community garden in Haifa, where we learned about food security and community resilience.
Our teens then had the meaningful opportunity to show solidarity with the Druze community by helping to beautify a holy site in Shfar’am, acknowledging the Druze people’s history of persecution and their ongoing efforts to preserve their unique faith and culture.
We also connected with the older generation by making and delivering treats to senior patients at a local hospital.
Amidst these enriching experiences, we enjoyed exciting recreational activities, including rock climbing at Haifa Port, exploring the ancient city of Tzfat, the city of Kabalah, and visiting the ancient synagogue and beautiful mosaics of Tzipori, the city of the Mishna. The week culminated in Jerusalem, where we delved into the City of David, toured the Old City, and experienced the vibrant markets and local craftsmanship.
As we walked along old cobblestone streets and gazed upon buildings older than some countries, the group was filled with a profound sense of awe. We are witnesses of an incredible phenomenon: ancient and modern history meshing together, numerous Jewish languages, cultural nuances, and experiences intertwining together –all forming a nation of incredible diversity.
For Shabbat, the URJ’s amazing president, Rabbi Rick Jacobs, will join us for morning celebrations. This will help foster a unique relationship between the URJ/Yallah! Israel and Yahel Israel, merging our shared belief of reform, community action, and Jewish unity.
As a reward for their hard work, Sunday will be filled with numerous adventurous activities in an exciting itinerary change, including surfing lessons with HaGal Sheli, enjoying beachside burgers, exploring historic Jaffa, experiencing technologic innovation at the Peres Center, and taking a fascinating tour of Ein Rafa.
The teens have only one partial week left on the trip with a meaningful reflection on incorporating Tikkun Olam into their everyday lives.
No matter what community we fight for, where we are in the world, and how we lend our aid, Tikkun Olam is an integral part of the Jewish identity, and this trip is only the beginning in fostering a lifelong commitment to service and advocacy.
